An Amtrak Bedroom: A Resource For New Passengers

An Amtrak bedroom offers the most spacious private accommodations on Amtrak’s long-distance trains. If you’re considering one for an overnight adventure, you may wonder whether the premium price is justified.

If you value privacy, a good night’s sleep, and your own bathroom, a bedroom is the right choice. It offers a private room for two people, complete with a dedicated bathroom with a toilet and shower. All meals are included!

Here are several key factors you should consider before booking your trip. Bedroom types vary by train, and some unique features may not be visible on Amtrak’s website.

You can also use strategies to get better value for your fare. This guide provides all the information you need, whether you’re planning your first sleeper trip or comparing options like a roomette, to help you make the best choice.

Quick Answer: Is an Amtrak Bedroom Worth It?

An Amtrak bedroom is the largest standard private room available on most Amtrak overnight trains.

It includes:

• A private toilet and shower
• Two beds
• A sofa and chair during the day
• Meals included with your fare
• Lounge access at select stations
• More space than a roomette

Amtrak bedrooms are best for:

• Couples
• Travelers wanting more privacy
• Longer overnight trips
• Solo travelers who want to stretch out
• Passengers who want easier access to a restroom
• Travelers willing to pay extra for additional comfort

Bedrooms generally cost more than roomettes, but the price difference can sometimes be smaller than you might think, especially for two travelers. On my first trip on the Floridian, I found that a bedroom was actually cheaper than a roomette when I booked. This can happen, so always compare prices before buying your ticket.

👉 Pro Tip: Always compare bedroom and roomette prices before booking. In some cases, upgrading to a bedroom costs less than you might expect.

Amtrak offers two types of sleeper cars.

Amtrak operates two types of long-distance trains: Superliners and Viewliners. Both have similar bedroom layouts. I have combined this information into a single article; separate articles are available for roomettes.

Amtrak’s Superliner (bi-level)

Superliner sleeper cars are bi-level and offer more rooms than Viewliners.

The Superliners’ sleeper cars feature five bedrooms, fourteen roomettes, a family bedroom, and an accessible room.

The upper level of the sleeper cars contains all the bedrooms and is on the same level as the dining car. You only need to use the stairs when boarding or disembarking from the train.

The Auto Train provides various sleeping options, including sleeper cars such as transdorms and deluxe bedroom cars.

Superliner bedrooms are labeled with letters, while other rooms are numbered. Bedroom A is 10 inches narrower and located at the end of the train. Bedrooms B and C form a suite, whereas Bedrooms D and E are standard bedrooms.

Auto Train Lorton, VA – Sanford, FL	California Zephyr Chicago – Emeryville/San Fransico
City of New Orleans Chicago – New Orleans	Coast Starlight Los Angeles – Seattle
Empire Builder Chicago – Seattle/Portland	Southwest Chief Los Angeles – Chicago
Sunset Limited Los Angeles – New Orleans	Texas Eagle Chicago – San Antonio (Los Angeles)

Viewliner (single-level)

Viewliner cars are single-level cars, so once you are on board, no more stairs.

Amtrak Viewliner sleeper cars feature two bedrooms, 12 roomettes, and an accessible room.

My favorite aspect of these cars is the extra storage space above the seats, which gives passengers more room.

These bedrooms are located between the accessible rooms and the roomettes, often facing forward in the direction of travel.

Cardinal New York – Chicago	Crescent New York – New Orleans
Floridian Chicago – Miami	Lakeshore Limited Chicago – Boston/New York
Silver Meteor New York – Miami

Understanding Amtrak Bedrooms

The bedrooms feature large exterior windows, and the upper set adds extra light. Both include interior windows overlooking the hallway, creating a more spacious feel.

All windows come with curtains that block light and ensure privacy.

The bedrooms feature multiple lights, including room, reading, and night lights. 

Each room has at least one outlet for charging devices, so I suggest packing an extension cord for train travel. 

Furthermore, a small closet is included for storage and hanging, with several hangers.

The sizes of Amtrak’s bedroom accommodations and beds

Amtrak bedrooms generally measure 6.5 feet by 7.5 feet and offer a range of amenities.

The beds or berths in this room are perpendicular to the tracks, while the roomettes are parallel.

• The lower berth measures 3.3 feet by 6.3 feet
• The upper berth, which requires a ladder, measures 2.3 feet by 6.2 feet.

Restroom and shower facilities

While the bathroom in an Amtrak bedroom might be small, it efficiently accommodates both a shower and a toilet.

Yes, you heard correctly! Both are in the same compact space.

The bedroom also has a sink, a trash can, a medicine cabinet, and ample storage space. Fresh towels and washcloths are also available outside the restroom.

However, if your travel companion uses the in-room facility, you can always use the public restrooms in the Superliners and the newer Viewliner sleeper cars.

If you run out of towels, please ask your car attendant for more; they will be happy to provide them.

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Seating and Sleeping

The central area of the bedroom features a sofa and a chair, with a fold-out table positioned between them.

At night, the sofa transforms into a lower berth, while the upper berth folds down for your companion.

The lower berth can accommodate two smaller people, but you’ll need to cuddle close. 

A ladder helps passengers reach the upper berth. 

I am about 6’2” and just fit lengthwise in the upper bunk.

The upper bed is slightly shorter than the lower roomette bed, but the width provides extra space.

There is just enough room on the upper bunk to move around, but you cannot sit up while in it.

Packing Note

When traveling by train, pack light. Viewliner bedrooms include designated luggage storage, while Superliners do not.

You can store your luggage under the bed on a Superliner, but access to it is limited at night. Although storage is available on the lower level, it is not secure.

What are Amtrak bedrooms like?

That’s a great question! I hope a few photos will help clarify the answer. These photos show Superliner bedrooms, but the Viewliner cars are pretty similar.

Daytime

The link below provides information about Superliner cars, which are similar to Viewliners. It may also be helpful for anyone interested in Viewliners.

Use your mobile device or the mouse to view the different angles.

What comes with Amtrak bedroom reservations?

These Amtrak bedrooms offer more than just additional space on the train.

“Complimentary” meals

All scheduled meals are included in your fare. Depending on your route, you’ll have access to either Amtrak’s traditional or flex dining.

At the Station Services

Several stations feature lounges where you can relax while waiting for your first train, during a layover, or for other modes of transportation.

Many larger, staffed stations offer red-cap service, which includes staff who help you reach the train using a motor cart.

Depending on the station and available equipment, delays may occur, especially during busy periods.

Finding your Amtrak bedroom in a sleeping car.

Amtrak sleeper cars are typically positioned at one end of the train, though their exact placement varies by route, season, and train configuration.

However, exceptions exist: the Empire Builder and the Lake Shore Limited operate as separate trains and serve different destinations. Sleeper cars are at both ends of the train, and assignments depend on each passenger’s destination. For example, on the Empire Builder, passenger sleepers bound for Portland are located at the rear, while those for Seattle are at the front.

Typically, bedrooms in sleeper cars face the center of the train. However, sometimes when Amtrak assembles its trains, certain sleeper cars may not follow the “correct direction,” and you might end up in a car facing the opposite direction.

Viewliner (East Coast single-level cars)

The Viewliner bedrooms are near the boarding door vestibule. When you board the sleeper from that end of the car, walk past the accessible room, and you will find both bedrooms. You’ll know you’ve gone too far if you see the roomette hallway.

If you board from the other end of the car, walk through the roomette corridor until you reach a bend. The bedrooms are there.

Superliner Sleeper (Bi-Level)

The bedrooms in Superliner cars are on the upper level; you enter the car on the lower level and must walk up narrow stairs.

Deluxe Sleeper

Deluxe Sleepers are available only on the Auto Train; you board on the lower level and must climb stairs.

Locking your bedroom door

Locking your door is easy, but it can be tricky at first. I have a video showing you how to do it, plus tips and tricks for leaving your room.

Please remember that you can only lock doors from the inside.

Navigating the train

For most trains, sleeper cars are located next to the dining car, followed by the café or sightseer lounge. However, there are exceptions, such as the Empire Builder’s 27/28 section, which has the sleeper cars at the end of the train, and the Boston sections 448/449 of the Lake Shore Limited.

Keep track of how many cars are in the dining car to avoid getting in the wrong car. Even seasoned travelers can experience this.

When traveling with Superliner trains, keep two things in mind. You need to be on the upper level to move between cars, and on the lower level to board or disembark the train.

One restroom is on the upper level, and several are on the lower level near the shower. All bedrooms are on the upper level. In most cases, to explore the train or visit a dining car, you exit your room, turn left, and be prepared to walk through one or more cars.

In Viewliners, everything is on one level. Sometimes, you board or disembark in an adjacent car. You typically exit your room and turn right to reach a food car. You may also have to walk through one or more cars to reach your destination.

Special request for booking an Amtrak bedroom

Each car features two bedrooms that can be converted into a suite, resembling hotel rooms with connecting interior doors. Amtrak may allow you to book a room for three people; however, two individuals must share the cozy lower bed. Amtrak can change this at any time.

For special reservations, please call Amtrak at 1-800-USA-Rail.

Reserving an Amtrak Bedroom

Various Methods for Booking

Amtrak offers several options for making reservations, allowing you to choose your preferred method.

• You can book at their staffed stations in person
• Call 1-800-USA-Rail
• Reserve electronically via the Amtrak website or app.
• The Auto Train offers a dedicated reservations phone number.

Choose the booking method that suits you. I prefer to use the website or app, but I call when I need to make changes or special requests, such as requesting rooms close together. Calling Amtrak may be best if you’d like someone to guide you through the process and answer questions.

If accommodations are available on the trains, you can usually adjust your trip. However, a price difference may result in a refund or an extra charge, depending on the circumstances.

You can cancel your trip without penalty within 24 hours of purchase. If you plan to share a bedroom with others, ensure all passengers are included in the same reservation when booking. Amtrak will not assign you a room with someone you don’t know.

Your Ticket

You can print your ticket or use it in the app or in your phone wallet. When I have a room, I prefer to print out my tickets.

The Information on Your Ticket

Each train ticket includes the train’s name and number, as well as the sleeper cars and their respective room numbers. Bedroom numbers are letters on your room’s doorframe. The car number, a four-digit number, appears on the door you enter, with the first two digits indicating the route number.

Tips for Booking Alternatives to Amtrak Bedrooms

This suggestion may seem unconventional, but it’s worth considering.

Traveling with someone else? A bedroom is an option, but it can be pricey. Reserving two roomettes instead may give each person more personal space for less.

While roomettes lack an in-room bathroom, this setup eliminates the need to climb into an upper bunk, which can be trickier than using a bedroom ladder.

Room assignments are random when booking online. To request specific rooms or ensure they’re near each other, call Amtrak or visit a staffed station as early as possible. While there’s no guarantee, it’s worth a try.

Rooms might not end up in the same car, but you can always gather in one during the day for convenience. Also, watch bedroom prices—if they drop, you can switch. Before modifying your reservation, check Amtrak’s booking policies for change fees.

Boarding the Train

When it’s time to board your train, there are several steps you can take to ensure a smoother process:

1. Listen for announcements at staffed stations for important boarding information.
2. Have your tickets ready and check which car you need to board.
3. As you approach the train, conductors and onboard staff will help you find the correct car. If you see the sleeper car passing by, watch for it and walk in that direction.

Please check the button below for more detailed tips on boarding Amtrak trains.

Once in your Amtrak bedroom

Once you settle into your room, your car attendant can help you familiarize yourself with your room, inform you of meal times, and set up or stow your beds as needed. If you need assistance, use the call button in your room.

Tipping your car attendant is customary when you receive good service; tips typically range from $5 to $20 per day. The amount you tip should reflect the quality of service you receive and align with your budget. Find out more about tipping on Amtrak.

Can you leave an Amtrak bedroom and walk around?

You’re welcome to walk around the train within reason.

Superliner trains feature a Sightseer Lounge, a great place to relax and take in the views. In most cases, the café is located on the lower level of the lounge car, while the dining car is open only during mealtimes.

If you are on a Viewliner train, you can go to the café car.

You may walk through the coach cars, but please do not sit in the seats unless you have a confirmed reservation.

At designated stops, passengers can exit the train and walk around the platform. However, conductors request that you not wander too far from the train. If you fail to board on time, the train will leave without you.

Packing Ideas for Amtrak Bedrooms

Here are a few things you can bring to make your trip more enjoyable.

Entertainment and Electronics

There’s no shortage of ways to pass the time on the train. You can gaze out the window, chat with fellow passengers, spend time with a travel companion, nap, read a good book, and more. Here are some additional entertainment ideas for your Amtrak adventures.

Remember to bring your charger cables and an extension cord—both are essential for keeping your devices powered throughout the journey.

Refreshments

I like to pack enough snacks for each leg of my trip in a small reusable bag that fits neatly into my luggage. It saves space and keeps me from going hungry between meals.

A refillable water bottle is a convenient and eco-friendly way to stay hydrated while saving money.

You can enjoy alcoholic beverages in your room or a friend’s room. If you’d like to purchase beverages for consumption elsewhere on the train, please do so in the café or dining car. Want a post-meal drink? Grab it in the dining car, then return to your room to relax.

Sleeping

Eyeshades are a great option if you’re sensitive to light. While curtains help block sunlight and streetlights, some platform lights may be positioned at window level, giving a subtle glow.

Earplugs can help if you need quiet to sleep. Engineers must sound the horn at night to meet FRA safety regulations, so you might hear it more than expected. That said, I find the rhythm of the wheels on the tracks and the horn soothing—it often helps me fall asleep.

A sleep aid may help if you have trouble falling asleep due to excitement or unfamiliar surroundings.

Etiquette for Amtrak Bedrooms

Basic manners are essential when traveling on Amtrak. However, a few additional considerations are necessary for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

First, please be mindful of your volume and use an indoor voice since the walls are thin and your neighbors can hear you. Keep the volume of your electronic devices low, including phone alerts, especially at night.

Please show respect to your car attendant.

Each sleeper car has one attendant, and they do their best to assist everyone. They may become busy during meals and bedtime, so please be patient if you require assistance.

Tipping is customary, though not mandatory, on Amtrak trains. However, exceptional service is always appreciated.

Finally, pay attention to announcements and prepare for your stop to ensure a smooth transition from the train to your destination.

Kev’s Experience with Amtrak Bedrooms

Over the years, I’ve had the chance to experience Amtrak bedrooms on various routes, and they’ve made my journeys even more memorable. As a solo traveler, extra space feels like a luxury, especially on longer trips, where having a private bathroom makes a big difference.

One of my favorite trips was on the Capitol Limited, where I booked a bedroom. My parents joined me and truly appreciated the added comfort. The bedroom gave them a cozy space to relax and the convenience of a private restroom. It’s an excellent option for couples or anyone looking for more privacy. What I loved most was that we could all hang out together since I had a roomette nearby.

More recently, I booked a bedroom on the Floridian because, surprisingly, it was cheaper than a roomette at the time. While bedrooms are generally more expensive, I’ve found deals that make them remarkably affordable, sometimes even the same price. On one trip aboard the City of New Orleans, the upgrade was just $50, making it an easy choice.

My advice? Always compare prices for all accommodation options when booking—you might get a great deal! Whether traveling solo, with a partner, or as a family, an Amtrak bedroom can make the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

Amtrak Bedrooms Wrap Up

Traveling long-distance by train is most comfortable in an Amtrak bedroom. You’ll enjoy a private room, your own bathroom, and all meals included. Plus, if two people share the cost, it can be more affordable than it seems at first.

The main trade-off is space. It’s a small room on a moving train, not a hotel suite. However, if you enter with the right expectations, most passengers find it worthwhile.

Here are a few important tips to consider before booking your trip:

• Compare prices for bedrooms and roomettes; deals can pop up, and bedrooms are sometimes cheaper.
• Book early to secure the best selection of accommodations.
• Once you’re on board, stretch out and enjoy!

Please let me know if I’ve missed anything or if you have any further questions.

For more information, please refer to these articles.

Safe Travels.

Kev

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